The beauty of nature and art collide every three years at the Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale, held across the stunning surrounds of the Niigata countryside. Various works of art are housed at hub facilities in the region, and also dotted throughout the landscape - often in the most unexpected of locations, such as terraced rice fields, train stations, and even in abandoned buildings.
The diverse artworks are created by both Japanese and international artists, including the likes of Leandro Erlich from Argentina who created Palimpsest: Pond of Sky, the centerpiece at the Kinare museum hub. Erlich is also well known in Japan for his piece at Kanazawa's 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art entitled The Ordinary.
Since the artworks for the Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale are scattered across various sites covering a wide area, there are bus tours available if you do not have private vehicle transport. More information about the bus tours can be found at the link here.
Getting there
There are artworks scattered across the Niigata countryside, but if you're looking for a place to start, head to the Echigo Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art. Many artworks are held at the venue, and there are also maps and brochures available to plan out what you want to see throughout the region.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
